Civil Rights Icon Rev. Jesse Jackson Hospitalized with Neurodegenerative Condition
In a developing story, renowned civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., 84, has been admitted to the hospital due to complications from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a condition that has been affecting him for over a decade.
Sources close to the family have confirmed that Jackson was initially diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2017 but underwent a significant diagnosis shift last April. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization closely tied to Jackson's advocacy work, released a statement expressing gratitude for prayers and support during this challenging time.
According to medical experts, PSP is a rare neurodegenerative condition characterized by impaired body movements, walking difficulties, balance issues, and eye movement problems. A critical distinction between PSP and Parkinson's disease lies in the age of onset, with PSP typically affecting younger patients.
Jackson, whose tireless efforts have earned him widespread recognition as a civil rights icon, has been at the forefront of numerous landmark campaigns throughout his career, including anti-apartheid activism, Palestine advocacy, and advocacy work alongside prominent figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Fred Hampton.
The veteran activist's storied past includes two unsuccessful presidential bids and multiple successful hostage negotiations on behalf of U.S. citizens abroad. His legacy extends beyond politics to a multitude of community initiatives through his organizations, Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition.
In light of this latest development, family and supporters have called for prayers and support as Jackson undergoes treatment for PSP, a condition that has already taken its toll on the civil rights icon in recent years, most notably during his COVID-19 hospitalization in 2021.
In a developing story, renowned civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., 84, has been admitted to the hospital due to complications from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a condition that has been affecting him for over a decade.
Sources close to the family have confirmed that Jackson was initially diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2017 but underwent a significant diagnosis shift last April. The Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization closely tied to Jackson's advocacy work, released a statement expressing gratitude for prayers and support during this challenging time.
According to medical experts, PSP is a rare neurodegenerative condition characterized by impaired body movements, walking difficulties, balance issues, and eye movement problems. A critical distinction between PSP and Parkinson's disease lies in the age of onset, with PSP typically affecting younger patients.
Jackson, whose tireless efforts have earned him widespread recognition as a civil rights icon, has been at the forefront of numerous landmark campaigns throughout his career, including anti-apartheid activism, Palestine advocacy, and advocacy work alongside prominent figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Fred Hampton.
The veteran activist's storied past includes two unsuccessful presidential bids and multiple successful hostage negotiations on behalf of U.S. citizens abroad. His legacy extends beyond politics to a multitude of community initiatives through his organizations, Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition.
In light of this latest development, family and supporters have called for prayers and support as Jackson undergoes treatment for PSP, a condition that has already taken its toll on the civil rights icon in recent years, most notably during his COVID-19 hospitalization in 2021.